Liberty-based First Liberty Bank has announced the promotion and appointment of officers and supervisory staff for 2026, as approved by its board of directors.
Charles Bolds has been promoted to senior vice president and continues to serve as senior mortgage officer. He has nine years of experience at First Liberty Bank. Bolds is actively involved in the community. He was named “Hardin Citizen of the Year” in 2024 and currently serves on the Hardin ISD Board of trustees. He also received the Emerging Leader Award from the Texas Bankers Association in 2025, recognizing his leadership within the industry and commitment to service.
Prem H. Dalwadi has been promoted to senior vice president and leads the bank’s information technology department. During his 13 years of service at First Liberty Bank, he has played a key role in strengthening the bank’s technology infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and supporting secure, efficient banking operations. Dalwadi was selected to participate in the Federal Reserve’s Banking Organization Leadership Training program in 2024.
William Reid has been promoted to senior vice president and serves as a loan officer based in Mont Belvieu. He has been with First Liberty Bank for three years. He is actively engaged in industry advocacy efforts that support community banking and works to stay informed on legislative and regulatory matters affecting the bank and its customers.
Melissa Ellis has been promoted to vice president and continues in her role as a loan officer, specializing in real estate lending in the bank’s Livingston market. She has been with the bank for four years. Ellis is actively involved in the community through volunteer service and outreach initiatives. She has supported organizations focused on housing, food assistance and financial literacy, and has participated in community efforts such as food distribution events benefiting families in need.
Lonnie Delahoussaye has been appointed banking officer and serves as security officer. With six years of service at First Liberty Bank, he supports daily operations while helping ensure a safe and secure environment for customers and employees. Throughout his tenure, he has gained experience across multiple operational areas of the bank, including loan operations, mortgage and accounting. In 2024, Delahoussaye received the “John J. Herbert Volunteer of the Year Award” from his local Knights of Columbus council.
“These promotions reflect the depth of talent within our organization and the commitment our team members demonstrate every day,” says Kelly D. Stretcher, president and CEO. “Each of these individuals contributes in meaningful ways to our customers and internal operations and plays an important role in advancing the bank’s strategic objectives.”
Established in 1913, First Liberty Bank operates 10 full-service locations, four loan production offices and a dedicated mortgage center.
